Shackled Defendant Before Jury

Deck v. Missouri; the constitution prohibits the use of visible shackles during the penalty phase of a criminal trial unless the use is justified by an essential state interest specific to the defendant on trial.

An appellate court should not review a district court sentencing departure decision de novo but instead should ask whether the sentencing court abused its discretion. Downward departure from sentencing guidelines.

Skilling v. United States; For purposes of obtaining a fair trial, it is sufficient if the jurors can lay aside their impressions or opinions and render a verdict based on the evidence presented in court.